JULYANAC 16, 2006 NDAPROUDLY SERVING TIMES LSA ANACONDA UP! and... Operation: Superman flies SHOE DROP into Anaconda MOTHER, SON TEAM BRINGS MUCH Page 12 NEEDED SHOES TO AREA CHILDREN Page 5 Vol. 3, Issue 28 4-11 FA >> NEWS >> QUALITY OF LIFE Soldiers volunteer time off to provide better cable service

Photo by Sgt.Rachel Brune Staff Sgt. Sayoko Stevenson, civil affairs NCO, “We have extended AFN ... to over 4,600 rooms.” - Page 3 and Spc. Christopher McCuiston, combat medic, set up a pediatric wheelchair for Bishra Salman, 15, (in background) who suffers from a debilitat- ing degenerative disease. Soldiers deliver donated wheelchairs to Iraqi youth by Sgt. Rachel Brune 101st Sustainment Brigade PAO ZIHALILAH, Iraq – Aziz showed up at the Q-West Base Complex Civilian-Military Operations Center with a wide grin and a story of need. The young boy told Soldiers of the 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment and a team from the 403rd Civil Affairs Battalion about his family and siblings, five of whom suffer from a degenerative disease. As a result, Abdul Karim, Bishra, Mah- moud, Ra’ad and Raija Salman, each received a new set of wheels in the form of pediatric wheelchairs donated by charitable organiza- tions in the United States. The Soldiers deliv- ered the chairs to the family June 29 here. Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids and ROC Wheels provided the 12 pediatric wheelchairs, which the 4-11th Counter Rocket Patrol, med- ics from the battalion aid station, and the 403rd delivered to the siblings, as well as to another disabled 19-year-old in the neighboring town of Ujbah. photo by Spc. Spencer Case Sgt. 1st Class Brad Burgess makes an attempt on the first “hole” of a temporary Frisbee Golf course at Logistical SupportArea Anaconda, July 4. see Wheels, Page 4 “I am an American Soldier.” I am Spc. Nicholas D. Wood, from Manteca, Calif. Convoy Security >> C Company, 1st Bn., 377th FA PAGE 2 ANACONDA TIMES JULY 16, 2006 You need to be treated by Soldiers find baby on patrol the VA for what? by Pfc. Paul J. Harris by Lt. Col. Jonathan Allen 3rd HBCT, 4th ID PAO Special to the Anaconda Times BALAD, Iraq – A U.S. Army “Pfc. Serve D. Inoif” has returned to the patrol from the 4th Infantry Division United States and is seeking treatment for a rescued an abandoned Iraqi infant sprained ankle that he got while serving in from the side of the road near Lo- Iraq. But the Veterans Affairs patient admin- gistical Support Area Anaconda last istrator looks through the medical file and month. there is nothing about it. Staff Sgt. Donald White was lead- Inoif tells them he twisted his ankle while ing his patrol from Battery B, 3rd dismounting from an armored Humvee. Battalion, 29th Field Artillery, 3rd After talking with the patient administra- Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th In- tor, he remembered that his commander gave fantry Division, on June 9 when they him a form: a Department of the Army Form came across a box on the roadside. 2173, to take to the Troop Medical Clinic to White said he initially thought it have the medical staff fill out. to be an improvised explosive device Inoif never returned the form to his com- until he heard crying coming from the mander and threw it away with the attached box. White looked for wires protrud- medical documents. ing from the box and made sure it was The patient administrator tells him that not booby trapped. there is no documentation that he got his med- “I ran as fast as I could, snatched ical condition from service in Iraq. He can go the box off the ground and kept on to the nearest civilian hospital for treatment, running,” he said. “Thankfully noth- but he’ll have to pay the costs himself. ing blew up.” You don’t want to be in the above situ- The child’s skin was literally ation. Some units are handing the form out hanging off and they could see it was with the sick call slip to Soldiers heading to massively dehydrated and malnour- the TMC for treatment. ished. Spc. John Sullivan, healthcare So when you are injured or sick and you specialist, Headquarters and Head- are going to the TMC or military hospital for quarters Battery, 3rd Bn., 29th FA, treatment of any conditions that may recur in evaluated the child and told Smith the future, make sure you are getting a DA they needed to get him to a hospital 2173 filled out by the medical staff. right away. Unit members jumped You should then attach any medical docu- into the trucks and drove as fast as ments and any other applicable documents they could. and return them to your commander. This is As the convoy drove as fast as known as a Line of Duty packet. it could to Balad Air Base hospital, For medical conditions that warrant care Sullivan turned the air conditioning in the future, this documentation is extremely vents in the baby’s direction so the Maj. Jase Dean, physician, 332nd Expeditionary Medical Operations Group from Lackland Air Force Base, San important to have completed and turned in. Antonio, Texas, holds a baby he treated for dehydration at Balad Air Base, Iraq. The baby was found aban- air would cool the infant. doned on the side of the road near Logistical support Area Anaconda by a patrol from Battery B, 3rd Battal- According to Col. Martin Christensen, the 3rd Sullivan said he was nervous be- ion, 29th Field Artillery, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers. COSCOM surgeon, “These documents allow cause he never had to professionally (Photo courtesy of Photo by Senior Airman Christine Noldee) them to go get continued follow-up medical treat a sick child before. “[He] did not replenish lost fluids. The infant eventually re- June 19. The mother of the child told Iraqi care for the remainder of their life from the cry at all in the vehicle, but his eyes rolled in gained its strength and was in stable enough police she left the child in her daughter’s VA.” the back of his head, and I thought, ‘Oh my condition to be released to the care of the care. The daughter was carrying the infant on He and his staff review the LOD Packet goodness, he is starting to die on me.’” Iraqi hospital in Balad. the road near LSA Anaconda when she was for 3rd Corps Support Command Soldiers to The hospital staff was already waiting for White credits the success of the rescue to chased by wild dogs and left the baby so she ensure the packet is complete. the Pacesetter patrol when the vehicles pulled the members of his Blue Delta patrol, not just could run faster, according to reports given to Copies are then distributed to the Official up. The Air Force medical staff treated the himself and Sullivan. Capt. Lance Awbrey, commander, B Battery, Records Department, the unit file, and the child by putting a feeding tube into him to The baby was reunited with its mother on 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery. Soldier gets a copy of the complete packet.

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and Stripes central office, with a circulation of 5,000 Deputy Public Affairs Officer papers. 210th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment Commander Maj. Kirk Slaughter The Public Affairs Office is on New Jersey Ave. ANAC NDA TIMES in building 4136, DSN 318-829-1234. Anaconda Editor Times, HHC 3rd COSCOM, APO AE 09391. Web Sgt. 1st Class Mark Bell Anaconda Times is authorized for publication by the site at www.mnf-iraq.com/publications_theater.htm Copy Editor 3rd COSCOM for the LSA Anaconda community. The Contact Sgt. 1st Class Mark Bell at mark.bell@ Sgt. Gary Witte contents of the Anaconda Times are unofficial and are balad.centcom.mil not to be considered the official views of, or endorsed Staff Writers by, the U.S. Government, including the Department of Sgt. Judith DaCosta Spc. KaRonda Fleming Sgt. Kevin McSwain Spc. Amanda Solitario Defense or Operation Iraqi Freedom. 3rd COSCOM Commanding General Anaconda Times is a command information newspa- Brig. Gen. Rebecca S. Halstead Spc. Mary Ferguson per in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1. Spc. David Chapman Chief of the Anaconda Consolidated Press Center Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown Anaconda Times is published weekly by the Stars Lt. Col. Brian McNerney JULY 16, 2006 ANACONDA TIMES PAGE 3 Units unite for a good cause -- cable by Spc. KaRonda Fleming with the project,” he said. “We have extended AFN to approximately 65 housing pods, including over Anaconda Times Staff Writer 4,600 rooms since Dec. 1.” There are some servicemembers who don’t just The project allows the units living in the hous- defend freedom, they preserve their right to cable ing areas to install the cable. Once identified, the television. servicemembers attend a one hour training class. In December, the 35th Area Support Group de- They are also provided with the design drawing termined that Armed Forces Network coverage in layout. LSA Anaconda’s housing areas needed to be im- “From the date that we break ground on the proved and drew together numerous units to help trench digging, to the date that we are finished make it happen. with the final quality control checks, to replacing Staff Sgt. Denise A. Bennett, the noncom- the sandbags, there could be anywhere from five to missioned-officer-in-charge of LSA Anaconda’s seven days to complete,” said Stigliano. Armed Forces Network office, said the service is The 35th ASG has received temporary support an important mission for morale. from a number of units over the course of the last “When Soldiers are out here with nothing to do, seven months, he noted. and have to go to the Post Exchange to buy movies The 35th Garrison S6 office, 159th Aviation all the time, they now have a chance to get cable Brigade, 32nd Signal Battalion, 558th Signal in their room,” she said. “This gives them an op- Company, 376th Personnel Services Battalion, and portunity to watch something else.” 3rd COSCOM Headquarters have helped with the Maj. James M. Stigliano, radio/telephone offi- project, said Stigliano. cer for the 35th ASG, said it takes approximately a The project is funded through purchase requests week to finish a single project and the work of up obtained through 35th ASG and 3rd COSCOM to 12 people. Headquarters. More than $60,000 has been spent “At this point we are roughly 70 percent done on materials for the project, said Stigliano.

Photo by Spc. Karonda Fleming Photo by Spc. Karonda Fleming Staff Sgt. Denise A. Bennett, platoon sergeant of 5th Detachment , 394th Postal digs a Spc. Christopher W. Lucchese, 32nd Signal Battalion, Bravo Company installs taps under a trailer. trench that will be used to install AFN cable lines throughout the housing unit. 8-Ball Tournament July 17, 24 and 31

2000hrs

East Recreation Center PAGE 4 ANACONDA TIMES JULY 16, 2006

What’s in your pocket? by Pfc. Paul J. Harris your 3rd HBCT, 4th ID PAO New card substitutes for a fist full of dollars by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown Anaconda Times Staff Writer Wallets in LSA Anaconda will be a little lighter because of a new program to cut down on the amount of cash circulating in The EagleCash Fact Sheet: theatre. Starting July 15, the Eagle Cash card, a debit card-like system for deployed servicemembers, will be available on post. • Provides deployed personnel “24/7” free access to The card can be funded by either a direct transfer of cash from personal bank accounts your bank account at one of the kiosks, or at the finance office with a check or casual pay. • Is similar in concept to pre-paid gift or phone cards “The whole idea is to reduce the amount of cash in theatre,” said 1st Lt. Julia B. Jackson, a dispersing agent of C Company, • Contains an encrypted microchip that keeps track 39th Finance Battalion. “It’s expensive to ship, store, and there of the available balance on the card automatically, are risks involved,” she said. accurately, and securely. The card can be used for purchases at AAFES sites on base. Another reason for implementing the Eagle Cash Card is When the card is swiped, the card balance is reduced immedi- to lessen the security risks of transporting currency around the • Is faster, safer and easier than using cash or ately. Unlike a debit or ATM card though, you cannot withdraw country. checks. Cardholders can add funds to the card at cash through an Eagle Cash card. The Eagle Cash Card program started in 1999 in Bosnia to the finance office or at self-service Kiosks. Funds can be added to or from your bank account or trans- benefit the servicemembers stationed there, Jackson said. Since ferred to other cards through kiosks that are already located at then, the program has been used in Kuwait, Qatar, and Afghani- • Cardholders can add up to $350 a day to their the Post Exchanges, post office, and finance office here. Other stan. cards. AAFES vendors will accept the card after the program starts. Department of Defense employees and U.S. civilian contract • Participating merchants on LSA Anaconda are: “Soldiers have greater flexibility when using the card,” said workers will also be able to use the program, Jackson said. AAFES PX/BX facilities, Post Offices, barber/ Cpl. Lan H. Lieng a finance specialist at the finance battalion. The 39th Finance Battalion is holding multiple enrollment beauty shops, AAFES gift shops/concessionaires, There is a $350 per day spending limit on the card, as op- sessions for those who want to apply for an Eagle Cash Card. and the food courts. posed to the $350 per month allowed for casual pay. Also, car- The next sessions will be 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at MWR east, rying electronic funds instead of cash reduces the risk of your and 10:30a.m.- 2p.m. at the west finance office on July 16. There will be eight Kiosks on LSA Anaconda: money being lost or stolen. Those who miss these times can enroll 10 a.m.-3p.m. at the east • Finance Office, East and West Sides “If you lose your cash – that’s it. If you lose your card finance office, and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at MWR west on July 17. • Post Office, East and West Sides though, we can freeze your account and replace the card,” said You can also apply by stopping by the finance office. To • PX, East and West Side – 2 Kiosks each Spc. Jason S. Jose, a finance specialist in the same unit. contact them, call DSN 829-2906.

Wheels, from Page 1 Sgt. Jason Foy, of Indio, Calif., and Spc. Christopher McCui- ston, of Ann Arbor, Mich., both combat medics, showed their fellow Soldiers and the Salmans’ family members how to fit the wheelchairs to each patient and make adjustments. The medics were chosen for the mission due to their prior ex- perience in fitting wheelchairs, said Foy. They received additional training from another medic as well as a training video included with the chairs. Each wheelchair came with a Paralympic Champion Barbie Doll named Becky. Bishra, who appeared much younger than her 15 years, smiled when the Soldiers handed her the doll. Her older sister, Raija, passed the doll to a younger female relative, and in- stead offered one of her silver bracelets to the female civil affairs Soldiers fitting her wheelchair. Spc. Nicole-Marie Toledo, of Binghamton, N.Y., and Staff Sgt. Sayoko Stevenson, civil affairs specialists, fitted the wheelchairs with some assistance from Foy. Raija, a very shy, modest patient, preferred that the two female Soldiers help her with the wheelchair. The family owned two wheelchairs already, which showed signs of extreme wear, originally donated by the 101st Airborne Division during the first year of Operation Iraqi Freedom, accord- ing to Mohammed, a local doctor. In the second village of Ujbah, Staff Sgt. Rolando Molina, noncommissioned officer in charge of the Counter Rocket Patrol, helped adjust the final wheelchair for 19-year-old Aziz Farouk. Molina, of Bronx, N.Y., joked with Farouk, calling him “home- boy” as he helped him into the chair. Previously, Farouk moved around by dragging himself across the dusty courtyard of his fam- ily’s home. Photo by Sgt. Rachel Brune For more information on the wheelchair donations, visit: www. Sgt. Jason Foy and a local Iraqi man gently lower Abdul Karim Salman into his new pediatric wheelchair June 29. Foy, a com- bat medic with 4th Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment, participated in a mission to deliver and fit wheelchairs donated by wheelchairsforiraqikids.com and www.rocwheels.org. charitable organizations in the United States for local Iraqis. JULY 16, 2006 ANACONDA TIMES PAGE 5 Coyote Ridge teacher connects with children through son Band of Brothers provide much needed footwear for local children by Pfc. Paul J. Harris of the school. Girls and boys are taught sepa- rately at the school. The boys section of the 3rd HBCT, 4th ID PAO school has brick and concrete structures while ZUHARI, Iraq - 150 pairs of shoes and the girls section consists of one long mud hut. 50 pairs of socks were passed out to Iraqi chil- The bathrooms on the boy’s side are locked dren at the end of May at the Shamoos School during the girls teaching sessions forcing the in Zuhari, Iraq, by Soldiers of Company D, girls to use a neighbor’s outside lavatory, Mi- 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy chael said. Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Miller and his platoon packed the shoes, Task Force Band of Brothers. socks and donated ice cream and Girl Scout The shoes and socks were donated by chil- cookies from the dining facility and set off dren from Coyote Ridge Elementary School for the school. The children of the Shamoos in Glendale, Ariz., and the project was headed School had been taking exams in the morn- by Ruth Miller and Marianne Taylor, teachers ing and had no idea the Americans were com- at the elementary school. Miller has a son, 1st. ing. Upon seeing the Soldiers drive up to the Lt. Michael Miller, platoon leader, Co. D, 1-8 school, the girls and boys eagerly lined up CAB, serving in Iraq and the two had talked to receive their gifts from abroad. It was not about the living conditions of Iraqi children. very clear who was getting more enjoyment “My son works closely with the Iraqi pop- out the shoe drive, the kids receiving the gifts Spc. Jacob Lorence, native of Corvallis, Ore., medic, Company D, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd ulation and he wanted to do something to help or Soldiers who got to pass them out. Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers, along with Cpl. the school children over there,” Miller said. “It is one thing to be driving up and down James Rakestraw, native of Louisville, Ky., food service specialist, Company G, 64th Brigade Support “He asked if the second graders would like the road looking for improvised explosives Battalion, 3rd HBCT, pass out shoes to Iraqi school children in the town of Zuhari, Iraq. The shoes to sponsor a shoe and sock drive for children devices and the bad guys,” said Spc. Daniel were donated by children from Coyote Ridge Elementary School in Glendale, Ariz. in his area. I was happy to help the children Alvear, ammunitions loader for a tank, Co. cal operations. He came out for support and After today’s mission Michael Miller in Iraq.” D, 1-8 CAB. “But it is another thing to be to hand out ice cream to the children. will gather all the photos he took to send The children from Coyote Ridge Elemen- out here helping the people. It makes me feel “I personally feel this is where we are go- back to the children at Coyote Ridge El- tary are from lower economic backgrounds good because I know we are making a differ- ing to win this war by interacting with the next ementary. Miller said he wants the children yet they were eager to help the children from ence by us being out here.” generation,” Rakestraw said. “That is one of in Glendale to be able to see the children in Iraq. Most heard about Iraq in the news but Heim Abid, female principal of the Sham- the most important missions we have is to win Iraq and say ‘Those are the shoes I donated’ Michael Miller wanted to put a face to the oos Schoo, said she was grateful for the the hearts and minds of the children … show and have them feel good about what they ac- news stories. Americans’ generosity. In past visits, she them that we are not scary or bad people.” complished. It says something to the character of the would talk with Michael about issues the children of Coyote Ridge Elementary to give school was having and her struggle for equal- something that they may not have had in the ity for women in the Iraqi educational system. first place, he said. It was a way for a tiny Michael was impressed with her candor and Use it Wisely or Lose it !!! community back home to get behind some- her willingness to talk to him, an uncommon thing good in Iraq. trait among Iraqi women from Zuhari. Air Conditioners consume the majority of our power. Take After the shoes and socks were collected, The coalition forces are putting a smile they were boxed and shipped to Iraq. To aid on the kids’ faces today, Abid said through a the following steps to conserve our available power. in the project, Taylor contacted Tom Freehill translator. The students and people of the vil- of the Kiwanis Club to help cover shipping lage will remember this day. Work Areas costs. The Kiwanis Club donated $100 and For some Soldiers this was their first time Around 3 p.m. every day, leaving the forward operation base to interact the remainder was made up by the parents and set AC thermostat to 85°F staff at the school. with the locals outside the wire. Cpl. James After the shoes arrived at Forward Operat- Rakestraw, food service specialist, Company (30°C) (as high as you can ing Base O’Ryan, Miller decided to pick the G, 64th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd HBCT, stand it and still be able to Shamoos School in Zuhari. On previous occa- was deployed previously with 3rd Battalion, work). Increase fan speed sions he had visited the children at the school 29th Field Artillery in 2003 but it was a dif- to FULL to circulate more air ferent mission then. Most of the time when he and noticed they had little or nothing to wear and feel cooler. Your AC Unit should look on their feet. He also wanted to help the girls went outside the wire in 2003, it was for tacti- Clean filters once a week, like these when you leave more if necessary. your rooms in the morning Make sure there is adequate space around outside com- pressor unit; 3 feet in front and 18– 24 inches in back. Keep doors & windows to air conditioned rooms closed.

Housing Units Settings should correspond to 80°F (27°C) & AC LOW when you go to work in the morning; see photo’s. When you get back to your room and until 7 p.m., leave ther- mostat on 80°F and turn to AC HIGH. Keep fresh air recirculation vent CLOSED. Clean filters once a week. Set to 85°F (30°C) & AC LOW if away for more than a week. Keep windows and doors closed. Spc. Jacob Lorence, native of Corvallis, Ore., medic, and Spc. Daniel Alvear, native of Annapolis, Md., ammunitions loader for a tank, both from Company D, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers, pass out socks to Iraqi school children in the town of Zuhari, Iraq. PAGE 6 ANACONDA TIMES JULY 16, 2006 Minnesota sisters deploy as best friends, battle buddies by Spc. Spencer Case ed their advanced individual training, which was difficult because they did not get to see Anaconda Times Staff Writer each other. LSA ANACONDA, Iraq– Sisters Lacy “When we went to separate AITs for three and Morgan Hennessy are inseparable—even months it was pretty hard being away for that a deployment to Iraq has not kept them apart. long,” Morgan Hennessy said. Lacy, 22, and Morgan, 20, are roommates For a while, the sisters drove to their who study at the University of Minnesota. monthly drills together. Even though they They are also citizen warriors in the Minne- were in separate units, they decided that if sota National Guard. When Lacy learned she one sister was deployed the other would fol- would be mobilized for a deployment to Iraq, low. her younger sister volunteered to go with her. “If she went, I’d have to go,” Lacy Hen- Today, Lacy and Morgan work at a large base nessy said. north of Baghdad as administration special- They left behind the rest of their family, ists for Co. A, 1/34th Brigade Troops Battal- their parents and their 18-year-old brother, ion of the “Red Bull” brigade. Brandon, to do six months of mobilization In their teenage years Lacy and Morgan training at Camp Shelby, Miss. Since they had talked lightly about joining the Army to- arrived in Iraq a few months ago, they have gether. Morgan said that they were influenced been helping troops in their unit resolve pay by their aunt, Kimberly Cassidy, who is a cap- issues and process other paperwork. Although tain in the Army. it has been hard being separated from the rest Photo by Spc. Spencer Case “We’d always see pictures of her in uni- Sisters Lacy and Morgan Hennessy who serve as administration specialists for Co. A, 1/34th Bri- of their family, the sisters say it is good that form when we were little and I just always gade Troops Battalion, pose in front of a mosque at Logistical Support Area Anaconda, Iraq. they at least have one member of their family thought it was cool for women to be in the cember 2002. Lacy enlisted as a cook January administration specialist. with them on holidays. military,” Morgan Hennessy recalled. “That 2002 at the age of 19. Morgan had to wait un- The sisters went to basic training at Fort “It made it really easy,” Morgan Hen- kind of stuck with us.” til she turned 17. On April 14, 2003, the day Jackson over the summer of 2003 with gradu- nessy said, “because…you have your best When Lacy needed a way to pay for her after her seventeenth birthday Morgan fol- ations two weeks apart. They were not in the friend and your sister there the whole time, education in retail merchandizing and man- lowed in the footsteps of her sister and aunt. same unit as they hoped, but they did see each you don’t have to worry about making friends agement, the conversation became serious. With the permission of her parents, Micheal other once a week at church services. right away because you have a battle buddy Lacy and Morgan visited a recruiter in De- and Karen Hennessy, Morgan enlisted as an The next summer, the two sisters complet- with you all the time right away.” Allied Health Group physician assistant caring for Soldiers, civilians in Iraq by Sgt. 1st Class David L. McCrary and Reserve con- tinue to perform Special to the Anaconda Times an increasing IRAQ – Indiana Army National Guard 1st Lt. Peter Iaria is number of unique currently deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Free- missions that re- dom, the official name given to military operations assisting in quire extraordi- rebuilding Iraq’s economic and governmental infrastructure, nary actions on training and preparing Iraqi military and security forces to as- the part of every- sume full authority and responsibility in defending and preserv- day citizens. ing Iraq’s sovereignty and independence as a democracy. E m p l o y e r Leaving his family, particularly daughters Riley, 4, and Pay- Support of the ton, 2, as well as friends proved to be the greatest trial for this Guard and Re- Soldier who “joined the military to serve my country.” In spite serve (ESGR) of these challenges, however, Iaria said that being part of Op- is the primary eration Iraqi Freedom helps make up for any hardships that he resource for in- may encounter. formation about Active duty and reserve component members from all the Uniformed branches of the U.S. armed forces are deployed under the U.S. Services Employ- Central Command to support the war against global terrorism ment and Reem- outside the borders of the United States. ployment Rights U.S. Central Command is the unified command responsible Act, commonly for U.S. security interests and assets in 27 nations stretching known as USER- from the Horn of Africa, through the Arabian Gulf region, and RA. This federal into Central Asia. law allows Iaria In Iraq, Iaria serves as physician assistant for the 738th Area and other mo- Support Medical Company. He is responsible for providing bilized reserve emergency and routine medical care to Soldiers and civilians component mem- from all over the world. He also supervises and trains enlisted bers to retain medics and performs post deployment health assessments for their rights, when Photo by Sgt. 1st Class David L. McCrary U.S. Soldiers leaving the theatre. The lieutenant has served in the deployment Governor Mitch Daniels visits with one of his troops, U.S. Army Indiana National Guard 1st Lt. Peter Iaria, a physician the military for 17 years, where he gained his training first, as a concludes. assistant for Allied Health Group, currently deployed to Iraq as a physician assistant for Detachment 17 in support nurse, then as a physician assistant. This is his first deployment Established of Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom. overseas. in 1972, Em- Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve at In his civilian occupation, Iaria is a physician assistant for ployer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a DoD (800) 336-4590. Allied Health Group. He performs temporary emergency room agency, provides free USERRA education, consultation, and if Iaria proudly claims the legacy of service to his country. “I coverage all over the country. He has provided emergency medi- necessary, mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve em- am the third generation of Pete Iaria to consecutively serve in cal services at American Indian reservations as well as industrial ployees. the military,” he explained. “My father was a Sergeant Major in sites. Iaria is grateful for the support of his employer. “My em- The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain active support the Army and my grandfather was a Captain.” ployer has worked with me in all phases of my military career from all public and private employers for the men and women Iaria, who calls Indianapolis, Ind. his home, is the son of and supports what I am doing for our country and its people,” of the National Guard and Reserve. More information about Pete A. Iaria. He hopes to find a permanent position upon his he affirmed. ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportu- return home as an emergency medicine or dermatology physi- Today, more than 1.2 million members of the National Guard nities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling the National cian assistant there. JULY 16, 2006 ANACONDA TIMES PAGE 7 Adaptability key to ECP mission for Guardsmen by Sgt. Jason Mikeworth “Being with a new company, I’m meeting ting in an office,” said Walton. “I was happy new people all the time, so time really goes by to come down here and get to do something 207th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment fast,” said Tirado. “It’s two different walks of different.” LSA ANACONDA, Iraq -- A thankless life, but we get along great. It’s farm life with Walton said he’s never sure what to expect mission and blazing sun doesn’t stop the sen- the city life.” when searching a truck. tinels of B Troop, 1/167th Reconnaissance, Staff Sgt. Randy Freye, a team leader, said “We found a falcon in some guy’s truck Surveillance and Target Acquisition Squadron his Soldiers work hard to ensure the safety of one time,” said Walton. “One time I opened from protecting the force, operating the south nearly 25,000 troops stationed at LSA Ana- a door and there was a guy just sitting there in entry control point at Logistical Support Area conda. his underwear.” Anaconda. “Our main mission on the ECP is force He said that the hardest part of his job is Pfc. Lorenzo Tirado, originally a mechan- protection for LSA Anaconda,” said Freye. also one of the best aspects of his mission. ic, said the unit was told of their mission while “It’s really two parts. The front side does the “The language barrier is probably the hard- training for their deployment. security, and the back side searches trucks est part to deal with,” said Walton. “We have “We got a heads up that we’d be doing and make sure no contraband items are being an interpreter out here, but he only speaks Ara- entry control point work when we were still at brought in.” bic. A lot of the people coming through here our mobilization station,” said Tirado. Freye said changing missions is routine for are from all over, like Turkey, Croatia and Tirado is one of about a company-size scouts. Ghana.” group who were transferred from the New Jer- “As scouts and infantry, like most of us Walton said learning to communicate non- sey National Guard to the serve with B Troop here are, we can do anything. A scout has to verbally turned the challenge into a rewarding from Nebraska. have a lot of little pieces of a lot of different experience. “It’s an eye opener, especially thinking I job skills,” Freye said. “It may not be one of “I’ve noticed I talk with my hands a lot joined as a mechanic,” Tirado said. “To help the more glorified missions, but we’re the front more, pointing at things,” said Walton. “But out doing this, you’re always a Soldier first, I line defense for the whole camp behind us.” it’s interesting to talk to the guys who speak like it. I enjoy doing the ECP.” Freye said the most difficult part of the task even only broken English, learning where Tirado said integrating the New Jersey Sol- is to not let it become too routine. they’re from and joking around with them.” diers into the Nebraska National Guard unit “Fighting complacency is the hardest part. Spc. Jerad Blocker, a scout, said the mis- wasn’t difficult. A lot of the same things go on here on a day-to- sion makes his deployment go by quickly. day basis. You can’t “I track the convoys coming through here, just say, ‘he does this and I help out with the communications,” every day, he’s going Blocker said. “Time has been going by pretty to do the same thing quick.” today.’ You can’t lull Blocker said initially he was a little disap- yourself into that, pointed that the mission would be to work an or else that’ll be the entry control point. day something goes “It wasn’t exactly what we’d really hoped wrong.” for. We’re more geared for working convoy es- Spc. Stephen corts,” said Blocker. “Once they told us we’d Walton, a vehicle be working the ECP, we just said, ‘well, this is searcher, said the what we’ve got to do.’ At least I know I’ll be change from working going home in one piece.” as a supply specialist “There really isn’t a hard job out here,” was welcome. Blocker said. “Sitting on an ECP, I don’t really “I was glad to get feel like I’m helping the Iraqis, but I definitely out of headquarters. feel like I’m helping other Soldiers.” photos by Pfc Jason Mikeworth Pfc. Lorenzo Tirado lifts the gate to allow a mili- Military convoys travel through the ECP gate at LSA Anaconda. It’s better than sit- tary convoy to pass through the ECP.

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“Always There, on the Air!”

Listen to win an EarRadio in May! Courtesy of www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil I am SFC David Dodson I am an american SOldierSOldier... I am a Warrior and a member of a team. I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values. I will always place the mission first. I will never accept defeat.

I will never quit. Photo by TSgt Jeremy Lock Photo by Lt. Col Martin Moerschell I am Capt. I will never leave a fallen comrade. - David Callawayn I am disciplined, physicallyI am Sgt. and Danila mentally L. Jones tough, trained and proficient in my war rior tasks Photo by Sgt. 1st Class David McCrary and drills. I always maintain serving in iraq the week of july 16, 2006 my arms, my equipment andemail us your Americanmyself. Soldier photo to: [email protected] I am an expert and I am a professional. I stand ready to deploy, engage, and de PAGE 10 ANACONDA TIMES JULY 16, 2006 Postal unit brings much-needed service to remote locations by Spc. Amanda Solitario Jones, company first ser- geant, and Woodward, who Anaconda Times Staff Writer are professional carpenters LSA ANACONDA, Iraq -- Sometimes, back home in Missouri, delivering a letter home from a combat zone, were the masterminds be- requires more thinking than firepower. hind construction opera- When the 1/795th Postal Company, from tions, said Armstrong. Bethany, Mo., arrived at Logistical Support They found potential Area Anaconda, its mission was putting unit sites for the buildings and members in danger on a daily basis. built many of them from Along with collecting the mail at Anacon- scratch. Now, instead of da, the unit was tasked with postal service for taking periodic trips to those the forward operating bases in the area. The bases, other units convoying unit would convoy to the satellite bases and there daily, drop off and pick regularly deal with improvised explosive de- up the mail, bringing it back vices, small arms fire and mortar attacks, said for processing to Anaconda, 1st Lt. William Armstrong, officer in charge he said. at the main post office. These were not the only “We took a step back and said how can improvements made with we make this better? How can we make this the postal service at LSA safer for everyone?” said Staff Sgt. William Anaconda. In February, Woodward, postal technical inspector for the the 1/795th was transferred main post office. from the West Side Post Of- Photo by Spc. Amanda Solitario The unit decided they could serve the Sol- fice to the new Joint Mili- Spc. Brian McNeil, from Little Rock, Ark., the supply noncommissioned officer for the 1/795th Postal Company, loads the day’s mail into a connex. The mail has already been sorted and weighed so it can reach its correct destination. diers better by building post offices at the out- tary Mail Terminal. It was lying bases to offer them postal service seven here they established an loading bay, five customer service centers, team effort,” he said. days a week compared to one day every two electronic conveyor belt system, which car- a room for official mail, two offices, and a The unit still has a few more months at weeks, said Staff Sgt Kenneth Riley, the post- ries more than 15,000 pounds of mail daily, to deck. They also hope to put in a sidewalk for LSA Anaconda before they turn over their al supervisor. alleviate the amount of back-breaking work, their customers if the time and materials per- keys to another unit. They have made many “Some people didn’t think we could do said Armstrong. mit, said Woodward. improvements to ease the mailing process for it, but we could, because of the tremendous “Originally we were lifting all these box- In order to make the innovations a suc- deployed service men and women in the fu- amount of experience this platoon has. The es by hand three or four times. Now we just cess, everyone had to help out. Some of the ture. key is to think smarter and not harder, sim- place it on the conveyor and take it off,” said Soldiers rearranged the layout of the main “I am extremely proud to be associated plify everything and have a can-do positive Woodward. room so customers could move around more with such an outstanding team, and I think we attitude,” Armstrong said. Since June, the 1/795th has been serving efficiently. Others worked more like a con- have accomplished our main mission, which The unit ordered materials from the LSA the LSA Anaconda community at the Main struction crew, tearing down old clerk coun- was to make a lasting contribution to all ser- Anaconda lumberyard and began the building Post Office on Pennsylvania Ave. In a month’s ters and installing new ones, Armstrong said. vicemembers on LSA Anaconda,” said Arm- of permanent offices. Sgt. 1st Class Patrick time, they have been able to construct a new “Everyone pitched in to help out. It was a strong. 407th Security Forces hand perimeter defense mission to Army by Master Sgt. Andrew Gates legacy of the ‘Desert Hunters’ will survive – because the Soldiers learned from the best 407th Air Expeditionary Group and will do a great job protecting Ali Base.” Ali Base, Iraq -- After more than three Army Capt. Joshua Dalton, the com- years of protecting Ali Base, the 407th Expe- mander of the 528th Quartermaster Company ditionary Security Forces Squadron “Desert which is assuming the mission, was equally Hunters” turned over the perimeter defense enthusiastic. mission to the Army’s 528 Quartermaster “I couldn’t be prouder that I am to serve Company in a ceremony June 30. with you Soldiers,” he said of the incoming The ceremony was the culmination of a perimeter defense team. “You are going to month of training by the “Desert Hunters,” do a great job – you Soldiers have trained bringing their Army counterparts up to speed hard – harder than I expected – to get where on applicable tactics, techniques, and proce- you are today.” dures. Because the Army is taking over the pe- This will be the first time since Ali Base rimeter defense mission, more than 170 Air opened in March 2003 that Air Force security Force security forces “Defenders” are rede- forces specialists haven’t provided perimeter ploying out of Ali – either filling in security security, said Chief Master Sgt. Robert Hen- positions around the theater or returning son, 407th ESFS security forces manager, home. They were recognized during a cer- during the ceremony. emony July 1. “Several months ago, as we realized the “Desert Hunters, this is one of the proud- Air Force would no longer have permanently est moments of my career. Being able to Army Capt. Joshua Dalton, 528th Quartermaster Company, accepts an M-9 magazine from Col. Victor assigned aircraft at Ali, the Air Force knew McCagnan, symbolizing the company’s acceptance of the Ali Base and LSA Adder perimeter defense award you the Iraq Campaign Medal is a we would need to hand over this defense mission. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Rasheen Douglas) moment I will always cherish. But please mission to the Army,” he said. got practical experience on defending the the end of the active mission, according to understand, this is not given to you, it is The beginning of the ceremony officially base. I am confident that these Soldiers are Chief Henson, while the assuming Army earned,” said Major Barron. “You have en- recognized the efforts of the 164 Soldiers prepared to conduct defense of Ali Base.” commander accepted, and loaded, an M-9 dured tremendous climatologically adverse who completed the training, provided by After the graduation ceremony, the Air magazine. conditions; extreme heat, sand storms, and members of the 407th ESFS. Force officially handed over responsibility “This is bittersweet for me,” said Maj. high winds to name a few. And you did it “They studied all aspects of integrated to the Army. In a normal environment, the Benito Barron, 407th ESFS commander, dur- in full battle rattle (protective gear) and base defense for the first two weeks of train- transfer of authority is represented by the ing the ceremony. “The ‘Desert Hunters’ had some of you were in the rolling ovens we ing,” said Chief Henson. “For the last two passing of a flag. In this instance, the outgo- a mission that was meaningful and fun – we call Humvees. You can be proud of being a weeks, they worked side by side with our ing Air Force commander unloaded his M-9 had the opportunity to go outside the wire combat veteran – proud that you are a ‘Des- ‘Desert Hunters’ to get a feel for the area and and relinquished the magazine, symbolizing and make a difference. But I know that the ert Hunter.’” JULY 16, 2006 ANACONDA TIMES PAGE 11 Baker takes support company command by Pfc. Paul J. Harris in the basics and will do well commanding a company. I 3rd HBCT, 4th ID PAO have tremendous confidence BALAD, Iraq (June 16, 2006) -- Capt. in her abilities.” Karen Baker took command of a forward Baker is this brigade’s first support company for 3rd Heavy Brigade female forward support com- Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task pany commander, a position Force Band of Brothers at a change of com- that she said she takes pride mand ceremony at Forward Operating Base in achieving, not for the gen- Paliwoda, June 15. der aspect, but to command a The company guidon was passed from vital part of the Iron Brigade’s Maj. Siegfried Ullrich, outgoing com- mission in Iraq. mander, Forward Support Company F, 1-8 The company has conduct- Combined Arms Battalion, to Lt. Col. Jef- ed 200 missions, transporting frey Martindale, commander, 1-8 Combined a total of 1 million gallons of Arms Battalion. He then presented the gui- fuel, 300,000 gallons of water don to Baker, signifying the change of com- and more than 300 detainees. mand. Baker attributes the suc- “Now the Workhorse guidon is entrusted cesses to the core command of to another great leader,” Martindale said. the company, the lieutenants “Capt. Baker brings a new energy and spirit and the noncommissioned of- to this outstanding company and through ficers, they, along with Ull- her leadership and focus on the basics will rich, briefed her on the train- take this company to the next level.” ing, tactics and procedures, Photo by Pfc. Paul J. Harris Baker previously commanded Company she said. Capt. Karen Baker, native of Allentown, Pa., commander, Company E, 64th Brigade Support Battalion, attached to E, 64th Brigade Support Battalion attached She now commands a com- 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers, receives the guideon from Lt. Col. Jeffrey Martindale, commander, 1-8 CAB, during a change of command ceremony to 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion. It was pany with 230 Soldiers, com- Thursday at Forward Operating Base Paliwoda near Balad, Iraq. Baker’s awareness of details as 64th Brigade pared to eight Soldiers she had believes that will carry over to her new job. Jones said gender was never a factor for Support Battalion’s adjutant that caught the at the S-1 shop with 64th BSB. Sgt. Renee Kobler, dietician, Company his decision to appoint Baker to her new po- attention of Col. Brian D. Jones, command- Sgt. Shannon Wyatt, human resource F, 1-8 Combined Arms Battalion said Baker sition. er, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, who noncommissioned officer, Headquarters is very interactive with the Soldiers. Wheth- “We place the most qualified captains in appointed her to the position. and Headquarters Company, 64th BSB, said er it is just to chit chat or go over safety the positions available,” Jones said. “Com- “Her performance as a staff officer in the even though Baker was strict, she was fair procedures she is very eager and open to mand of a forward support company is not 64th Brigade Support Battalion was very and her approachable demeanor made her communicate with the noncommissioned a gender coded position. If she’s qualified, strong,” Jones said. “She is well grounded successful as the S-1. Wyatt said and she officers and junior enlisted Soldiers. why not?” NCO earns safety award for snuffing out a fire by Master Sgt. Julie Briggs minutes later I felt the heat. I turned around and saw flames said fire officials here. According to firefighters, the wiring in shooting down from the ceiling.” the light’s ballast had shorted, causing the fire. 332d Air Expeditionary Wing Stepping out from behind the bookcase, White said he told White said seeing the flames didn’t scare him because he’s LSA ANACONDA, Iraq -- A metal technician assigned the librarian to evacuate the building and to call the fire depart- used to working with heat and fire. to the 332d Expeditionary Maintenance Squadron received a ment. “In our welding shop, seeing fire is common,” White said. safety award for snuffing out a fire last month in the library. Instead, “she jumped up and ran out the door,” White said, “In the shop, we sometimes have sparks start tiny fires near the Staff Sgt. William White received his award from Brig. leaving himself and a handful of others behind. welding area. We just pat it out with our gloved hands.” Gen. Frank Gorenc, 332d Air Expeditionary Wing commander, “That’s when I told the security forces guy working at the In fact, the father of three said reacting to the potentially during the monthly safety awards presentation. computer behind me to evacuate the building and to call the fire harmful situation was a natural reaction, saying that the annual White, who has since returned to Hill Air Force Base, Utah, department,” White said. He then grabbed the fire extinguish- fire extinguisher training also helped. was looking for a book to read May 9 when he said he felt heat er, pulled the pin, aimed the nozzle and squeezed the handle, “I did what I was supposed to do,” he said. “After it hap- on the back of his neck. spraying the fixture with foam and putting out the fire. pened, I said to myself, ‘Damn. I guess you do take in some- “A few minutes before the lights had popped off and we His quick thinking and immediate response saved the li- thing during those fire extinguisher classes.’” were using light from an open door to see,” said White. “A few brary and prevented the nearby building from catching fire,

Photo by Master Sgt. Julie Briggs

For extinguishing a fire at the Balad Air Base’s library in Iraq, Staff 20 minutes prior to each movie Sgt. William White (right) received a safety award from Brig. Gen.

Frank Gorenc, 332d Air Expeditionary Wing commander. If left unsecured...things tend to disappear!! for Soldiers, about by Soldiers SECURE YOUR GEAR SECURE YOUR anaconda.reel PAGE 12 ANACONDA TIMES JULY 16, 2006 From Krypton to Anaconda Movie provides Hundreds receive thanks from the states at movie premiere stories and photos by Sgt. Gary Witte, Anaconda Times Staff Writer super thrills LSA ANACONDA, Iraq -- The postcard, for the show to start. You’ve been gone for five years. with its childlike writing, used the Superman Brown, the squadron When you get back home, you find symbol as the first letter in the word Soldier. surgeon for 167th Calvary out the girl you love is engaged and It was one of about 700 cards handed out (RSTA), said when he took has a kid. to the servicemembers who attended the July his wife and children to visit The man who has sworn to kill 4 premiere of “Superman Returns” at Sustain- Universal Studios, he was you is out of prison thanks to your ab- ment Theatre here. The cards were filled the one who got his picture sence. out by civilian theatergoers in the states as taken with Spiderman. His Your house has been broken into personal messages to deployed troops. son, aged 3-and-a-half, pre- and you confirmed that your birth par- “I think that’s very nice,” Spc. Clinton fers Batman. ents and any blood relations you have A. Ferguson, a member of the 322th Mainte- Brown, who is from are dead. nance Co., said. “It lets us know people still Stockbridge, Ga., still has Maybe it is tough to be Superman. support us at home.” hundreds of comics from The movie “Superman Returns” The cards referred to the troops as “true his childhood, but doesn’t sets out to brush off the cinematic dust super heroes” and came from throughout the consider them to be im- More than 700 people showed up July 4 for the LSA Anaconda pre- from the superhero icon, and mostly United States. Some had smiling cartoons and mature. He still occasionally miere of the movie “Superman Returns”, filling Sustainer Theatre to succeeds. others had photographic stickers from their purchases them and points capacity. Each attendee was presented a postcard in appreciation for Echoing the renovation of the Bat- writers. Some were even in Spanish. to a psychological complex- their service, filled out by civilians in the United States. man franchise, the new movie essen- The LSA Anaconda premiere of the movie ity comics have that doesn’t 1990’s. Many of the moviegoers debated tially takes up sometime after “Super- attracted far more than 700 Soldiers. The always translate to other media. whether the new movie would measure up to man II” left off, erasing the stains left theatre was filled to capacity and even those “Comics are no longer for children,” he their favorite aspect. by the third and fourth films. Director who showed up a half-hour early were turned said. “In the actual series, [heroes] don’t Staff Sgt. Chris D. Botts, with HHB, Bryan Singer mirrors the first two mov- away. always win. They lose people they love. It’s a 329th Field Artillery, was not optimistic. ies to the degree that even the music Ferguson, who is from Cincinnati, Ohio, lot more realistic, if you can use that word.” “I don’t think it will be as good as the old and opening credits are the same. said he grew up watching the Superman For instance, Brown noted Superman ones. It doesn’t have Christopher Reeve,” he The movie isn’t a carbon copy of cartoons and is now a fan of “Smallville,” the must face the rigors of lying about who he is, said. “He was the man for Superman.” past glories, however. This is a modern TV show that portrays a young Man of Steel. survivor’s guilt because of the death of his Sgt. Shawn D. Burke and Staff Sgt. story with adult attitudes. Superman “He’s one of the superheroes that’s hard homeworld, and inadequacy while trying to Michael J. Burke are brothers who both serve (Brandon Routh) finds his every move to beat,” Ferguson said while waiting outside live up to the expectations of his father. with the 452nd Ordinance Co. They col- tracked by bystanders with video cam- the theatre. “You put him against any other “These are common human things,” he lected comics when they were kids and had eras and the fact that Lois Lane (Kate superhero, he’ll come out on top.” said. seen “just about all” the movies. They liked Bosworth) hasn’t married her child’s Sgt. Jimmy L. Steinberg, with Charlie Brown himself had problems to deal with what they saw in the “Superman Returns” father is treated as the non-issue it is. Battery, 1-17th Field Artillery, had seen all the evening of the premiere. His wife had just previews. The special effects are amazing of the previous movies and had a different e-mailed him that she was in labor. He had “I’m kind of anticipating that he’ll fit the throughout. This movie won’t just con- reason for his appreciation of Superman. planned to bear witness to his daughter’s birth part well,” Michael Burke said of the latest vince you a man can fly, it gives you “It’s his sense of justice,” Steinberg said. via video conference, but she was arriving actor playing Superman, Brandon Routh. a solid feeling what it might be like to “He knows right from wrong.” two weeks before her due date. “I’m definitely hoping for sequels.” be Superman. The effects are convinc- It hurts me to know how far away you are “It’s a little bit of a stress release,” he said Once the closing credits rolled, people ing enough that you’ll wince as a plane from home ... But it makes me proud in all of the movie. “There’s nothing for me to do gave their on-the-spot reviews. All those flies at the screen. you have been doing. Keep on truckin’ on ... but worry.” interviewed gave it thumbs up. Routh steps into the boots left by You’ll be home soon. We will get through this. Staff Sgt. Alexander Campillo, with Mo- Christopher Reeve nicely, showing us - Farrah, Minneapolis, Minn. - Pittsburgh, Penn. bile Road Bridge Co., 50th Engineers, said that while he can toss cars around like Superman wasn’t the favorite of everyone There are many versions of Superman, parts of the movie was slow, but he enjoyed it Tinkertoys, Superman is just a nice in the crowd. including the George Reeves television show nonetheless. guy trying to do the right thing. He “I’m a Spiderman fan. And Wolverine,” of the 1950s, the Christopher Reeves mov- “I liked the special effects,” he said. “The doesn’t channel Reeve, but recreates Capt. William A. Brown Jr. said as he waited ies of the 1980s and the cartoon series of the action was pretty entertaining.” the character. Frankly, he makes Clark Kent less of a dork. Likewise, Bosworth is admirably Who is your favorite superhero? hard-nosed and conflicted about the return of her hero. She faces the pos- sibility of having to choose between nice guys, one in tights and the other a newspaperman played by James Marsden. The love story doesn’t get shorted, which leads to some slow scenes and a lot of emotional handwringing. This is balanced by plenty of cliffhanger action scenes, surprises and sly hu- mor, much of it provided by Lex Luthor (Kevin Spacey). I would have liked there to be more Pfc. Kendra R. Enrightd Spc. Erica A. Johnson Spc. Erica

super villains and fight scenes, but Ford T. Spc. Jeffrey these are minor complaints for an ex- cellent movie. Besides, I suspect more “I’ll have to go with Spiderman. He was “Storm. Her mood was tied to the “I don’t have a favorite. I never watched villians and fight scenes will be arriving someone I looked at when I was a little kid forecast.” super heroes growing up.” for the deserved sequel. and now my nephews watch him. I think it’s sort of a tradition thing.” JULY 16, 2006 ANACONDA TIMES PAGE 13

Movie Schedule Religious Schedule Sustainer Roman Catholic Mass Lutheran Saturday 7 p.m. Eden Chapel (bldg. 4148) Sunday 8 a.m. Provider Chapel Saturday 7:30 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel (vigil mass) Sunday 8:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel Protestant-Gospel Reel Time Sunday 9 a.m. Tuskegee Chapel Sunday 11 a.m. Sustainer Indoor Theater Sunday 11 a.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 12:30 p.m. Freedom Chapel Sunday 2 p.m. CJSOTF Chapel Sunday 7 p.m. Provider Chapel Theater Sunday 3:30 p.m. JSOAO-AP Chapel Monday - Friday 7:30 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Protestant Praise and Worship (schedule is subject to change) Sacrament of Reconciliation Sunday 9:30 a.m. Sustainer Indoor Theater 30 minutes prior to each mass Sunday 9:30 a.m. Freedom Chapel July 16 Sunday 5:30 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel 2 p.m. Superman Returns Church of Christ 5 p.m. Hoot Sunday 11 a.m. 1/245th ATS Conference Room Protestant-Contemporary 8 p.m. United 93 Sunday 10 a.m. 299th FSB Tent Chapel Islamic Prayer Sunday 11 a.m. Town Hall July 17 Friday 12:30 p.m. Provider Chapel 5 p.m. Superman Returns Protestant-Traditional 8 p.m. Stick It Samoan Congregational Service Sunday 9 a.m. Air Force Hospital Chapel Sunday 4 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 9:30 a.m. Provider Chapel July 18 Sunday 11 a.m. Freedom Chapel 5 p.m. Hoot Latter Day Saints Sunday 11 a.m. Eden Chapel (bldg. 4148) 8 p.m. Superman Returns Sunday 1 p.m. Provider Chapel Sunday 7 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel Protestant-Praise and Worship July 19 Sunday 9:30 a.m. Sustainer Indoor Theater 5 p.m. United 93 Jewish Prayer Sunday 9:30 a.m. DFAC Four Overflow Room 8 p.m. Stick It Friday 6:30 p.m. Eden Chapel (bldg. 4148) Sunday 5:30 p.m. Tuskegee Chapel

Religious schedule subject to change July 20 5 p.m. Stick It 8 p.m. Superman Returns

July 21 2 p.m. R.V. Movie Synopsis for July 16 - 22 5 p.m. Poseidon Superman United 93 8 p.m. Pirates of the Caribbean PG-13, Action Violence, 153 min R, Language, terror, violence, 111 min Following a mysterious absence of several years, A drama that tells the story of the passengers and the Man of Steel, Superman, comes back to Earth- crew, their families on the ground and the flight con- July 22 but things have changed. While an old enemy plots trollers who watched in dawning horror as United 11 a.m.. Pirates of the Caribbean to render him powerless once and for all, Superman Airlines Flight 93 became the fourth hijacked plane 2 p.m. R.V. faces the heartbreaking realization that the woman he on the day of the worst terrorist attacks on American 5 p.m. Pirates of the Caribbean loves, Lois Lane, has moved on with her life. Or has soil: September 11, 2001. 8 p.m. Poseidon she? Superman’s bittersweet return challenges him to bridge the distance between them while finding a place in a society that has learned to survive without Pirates of the Caribbean 2 him. PG-13, Adventure violence 145 min Once again thrown into the world of the super- natural, Captain Jack Sparrow finds out that he owes Hoot a blood debt to the legendary Davey Jones, Captain PG, mild bullying, language, 90 min of the ghostly Flying Dutchman. With time running When a Montana boy moves to Florida and out, Jack must find a way out of his debt or else be unearths a disturbing threat to a local population doomed to eternal damnation and servitude in the of endangered owls, three middle-schoolers take afterlife. And as if this weren’t enough, the Captain’s on greedy land developers, corrupt politicians, and problems manage to wreck the wedding plans of a clueless cops. Determined to protect his new envi- certain Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann, who are ronment, the boy and his friends fight to prevent the forced to join Jack on yet another misadventure. adults from making a big mistake. Poseidon Stick It PG-13, disaster and peril, 98 min PG-13, crude remarks, 105 min When a rogue wave capsizes a luxury cruise ship A 17 year-old, ex-gymnastics star with big fam- in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, a small ily problems finds herself on the wrong side of the group of survivors find themselves unlikely allies in a law after one-too many arrests. Forced back into the battle for their lives. Preferring to test the odds alone, regimented world of gymnastics to clean up her act, career gambler John Dylan ignores captain’s orders to she rediscovers her love of the sport and gets the wait below for possible rescue and sets out to find his chance to make peace with her dysfunctional life. own way to safety. Empowered by her transformation, she rallies fellow gymnasts to protest and outsmart outdated scoring methods at the National Championships. PAGE 14 ANACONDA TIMES JULY 16, 2006

July 16 Texas Hold’em Tourney 8 p.m. Hip Hop Dance Class West Recreation Center 8 p.m. ANACONDAYour one-stop connection to activities ACTIVITIES around LSA Anaconda East Recreation Center to add your activity to the event calendar, email [email protected] Sports Day w/ Pizza Hut 7 p.m. Texas Hold’em Tourney Foosball Tournament Poker Tournament July 19 H-6 Fitness / Rec Center 8 p.m. 8 p.m. 6 p.m. 9-Ball Tournament West Recreation Center West Recreation Center East Recreation Center 500m Breaststroke 8 p.m. 9 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. East Recreation Center Country Dance Class Combat Scavenger Hunt Magic Tournament Indoor Pool Ballroom Hustle Class 8 p.m. 8 p.m. 1 p.m. 8 p.m. West Recreation Center H-6 Fitness / Rec Center West Recreation Center JulyJuly 30 30 East Recreation Center Popeyes Chicken Hip Hop Dance Class 8 p.m. Swim Lessons Green Bean Karaoke 8 p.m. July 20 H-6 Fitness / Rec Center Level 1 – 8 p.m. (indoor) 8 p.m East Recreation Center Country Dance Class Level 2 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) West Recreation Center 8 p.m. 500m Breaststroke Level 2 – 7 p.m (indoor) Poker Tournament East Recreation Center 9 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Level 3 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) July 17 6 p.m. Indoor Pool 8-Ball Tournament July 26 East Recreation Center Texas Hold’em Tourney July 26 8 p.m July 23 8 p.m. July 23 9-Ball Tournament East Recreation Center JulyJuly 31 31 East Recreation Center Hip Hop Dance Class 8 p.m. 8-Ball Tournament 8 p.m. East Recreation Center Karaoke 8 p.m. Halo 2 Tournament East Recreation Center 8 p.m. East Recreation Center 8 p.m. Ballroom Hustle Class East Recreation Center West Recreation Center Poker Tournament 8 p.m. Karaoke 6 p.m. East Recreation Center 9-ball Tournament 8 p.m. Swim Lessons East Recreation Center 8 p.m. East Recreation Center Level 1 – 8 p.m. (indoor) 100m Butterfly Race West Recreation Center Level 2 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) Magic Tournament 7:30 p.m 100m IM and 50m Level 2 – 7 p.m (indoor) 1 p.m. Indoor Pool Purfect Angels Backstroke Competition Level 3 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) West Recreation Center 8 p.m. July 27 9 a.m. and 7:30 p.m July 27 West Recreation Center Indoor Pool July 21 Green Bean Karaoke Country Dance Class July 18 Chess Tournament 8 p.m. 8 p.m. August 1 8 p.m. West Recreation Center East Recreation Center Table Tennis Tourna- Karate Lessons East Recreation Center ment 5 p.m. JulyJuly 24 24 Battlefield Ground Tourney 8 p.m. West Recreation Center Caribbean Class 8-Ball Tournament 8 p.m. East Recreation Center 8 p.m. 8 p.m. East Recreation Center Country Dance Lessons East Recreation Center East Recreation Center 8 p.m. Swing Dance Lessons Caribbean Class 8 p.m. West Recreation Center Salsa Class 9-ball Tournament 8 p.m. East Recreation Center 8 p.m. 8 p.m. East Recreation Center August 2 West Recreation Center West Recreation Center Magic Tournament Foosball Tournament Salsa Class 8 p.m. 1 p.m. Sidewinders Karaoke 8 p.m. West Recreation Center West Recreation Center 8 p.m. 8 p.m East Recreation Center H-6 Rect Tent East Recreation Center Green Bean Karaoke “So you think you can Swim Lessons dance?” 8 p.m Unit Feud Apollo Night Level 1 – 8 p.m. (indoor) 8 p.m. West Recreation Center 8 p.m. 8 p.m. Level 2 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) H-6 Fitness/Rec Center H-6 Fitness / Rec Center H-6 Fitness / Rec Center Level 2 – 7 p.m (indoor) Night in the Park Level 3 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) Tuskeegee Airman B-Day July 25 8 p.m. 25m Doggy Paddle/ 25 July 25 Bash July 28 West Recreation Center meter beginner swim Table Tennis Tourna- July 28 8 p.m. 7:30 p.m ment Salsa Class H-6 Fitness / Rec Center August 3 Indoor Pool 8 p.m. 8 p.m. 9-ball Tournament East Recreation Center West Recreation Center Swim Lessons July 22 8 p.m. Level 1 – 8 p.m. (indoor) July 29 West Recreation Center Salsa Class Swing Dance Lessons July 29 Level 2 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) 8 p.m 8 p.m. Salsa Class Level 2 – 7 p.m (indoor) Karaoke East Recreation Center East Recreation Center 8 p.m. 8 p.m Level 3 – 9 a.m. (outdoor) East Recreation Center East Recreation Center JULY 16, 2006 ANACONDA TIMES PAGE 15 Bringing World Cup closer 3rd COSCOM Soldier wins weightlifting competition by Pfc. Paul J. Harris by Spc. Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown 3rd HBCT, 4th ID PAO Anaconda Times Staff Writer BAQUBAH, Iraq – With “World Cup fe- CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – The ver” currently gripping the globe, many of my sound of dumbbells clanging have become fa- American friends here and back home keep miliar to Maj. Sherelle P. Simmons, since her asking me “What is the big deal?” hobby turned competitive. Let me try and put it into perspective: I Simmons, a corps distribution center officer grew up a child of immigrants. My mother for 3rd Corps Support Command (COSCOM), and father came to the United States from is also a competitive weight-lifter. England in 1963. My father was in the British Simmons, 42, of Olathe, Kansas, began Army during the 1950s before taking a job as weight-lifting here a few months ago after ex- a mechanic for Rolls Royce Motors, which pressing her fitness goals to a colleague, Staff was a catalyst in bringing them to California, Sgt. Kevin Carter. He offered to train her, and where I was born and grew up. a pastime became a pursuit. My earliest memories of bonding with my “I started this out as a means of getting father, like those of many of my male friends, fit, and now it’s gotten to the point where my were watching sports. It was at these mo- trainer has so much confidence in me,” she ments that he would try to explain the offside said. “He pushes me to levels that I don’t think trap to me and recount the glories of England I can go.” winning its only World Cup to date, in 1966. Since entering contests here, Simmons has Those of you from Texas who can remem- won the competitive lifting competition, the ber watching the 1981 NFC championship military press, and the repetition competition game between the Cowboys and 49ers when for her weight class. Photo by Spc. Kevin McSwain Maj. Sherelle P. Simmons, a corps distribution center officer for 3rd COSCOM at Camp Buehring, Joe Montana hit Dwight Clark in the back of She said her starting goal was to be in Kuwait, pumps some iron with her lifting partner, Capt. Edlizena W. Miller. Both Simmons and Miller the end zone to send San Francisco to its first good shape for her husband and children when compete in weight-lifting competitions with and against each other. Super Bowl, I can feel your frustration. she returns home for leave, but her new fitness The two women had been working out together since November I can vividly remember my father going routine is also helping to set an example. before each started working with separate trainers. They now compete absolutely ballistic during the infamous “I have two daughters, and I want them to see me in good shape. I against each other. Diego Maradona “Hand of God” goal during want them to say, ‘Hey, I want to be like Mom,’” Simmons said. Simmons plans to continue weight-lifting throughout her deploy- England and Argentina in the 1986 World Her weight-lifting is already starting to show results aside from ment, and hopes to find a trainer when she returns home. Cup in Mexico. winning competitions, and others are taking notice. “I’ll see if I can find a personal trainer like Sgt. Carter,” said Sim- The games have much more meaning than “I’ve noticed differences in her overall as far as self-motivation, mons. what is displayed on the pitch. England and spiritually, and physically,” said Capt. Edlizena W. Miller, the 16th For more information on weight-lifting competitions or to enter Argentina had recently fought a war over the CSG liaison officer for 3rd COSCOM of Gary, Ind., Simmons’ work- one, visit the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation center for a schedule of Falkland Islands – losing the way England out partner. events. did was more salt in an open wound. That’s what is really spectacular about the games. It is the sense of nationalism that comes out in people from all over the world. Fitness is key element to teamwork It is what brings people out into the streets to cheer and party like it is Mardi Gras. by Sgt. Kevin McSwain Skidis, a transportation coordinator for similar fitness goals or is someone you feel the 53rd Movement Control Battalion, said comfortable with to help track your prog- The U.S. caught a glimpse of what could Anaconda Times Staff Writer have been in the 2002 World Cup before los- a fitness partner pushes you to work harder, ress. Time goes by faster when there is CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – Sgt. ing in the quarterfinals to Germany. We had keeps you on track and – most importantly someone to work out with, Blackwell said. Heather Skidis goes to the gym six times a high hopes this year and were expecting to – keeps your workouts interesting Partners can also help each other stay week, but said teamwork gets her there. do better than failing to get out of the group Her fitness partner is Staff Sgt. Rodney healthy by monitoring each other’s nutri- stage. Blackwell, a chemical corpsman. Both are tion. I also had high hopes of going to the assigned to the battle staff of 3rd Corps Sup- “After we stopped eating junk, my stam- games this year in Germany; unfortunately port Command (COSCOM). The military ina began to increase even faster.” Black- my leave was pushed up to March. It was is based on teamwork and cooperation, so well said. around this time that the idea of bringing needing a partner is only natural, Skidis Individual training should still be con- the World Cup to Forward Operating Base said. ducted to supplement the workouts being Warhorse came to me. I wanted to bring that “If it wasn’t for Sgt. Blackwell, I conducted as a group. This ensures every- sense of national pride to the diverse multi- wouldn’t come in here,” she said of the one is getting an adequate amount of train- cultural group we have on the base. gym, noting her goal is to maintain her level ing in all the areas they feel are important. After putting up a couple of flyers and of fitness. Blackwell and Skidis conduct their getting six nations to play, I had no idea of Beginning a physical training program muscle-strengthening programs separately. the turnout the base would produce. During with a partner can be as simple as working He lifts weights in the mornings and Skidis the Sierra Leone vs. Republic of Georgia out together once a week and increasing the does pushups and sit-ups in her room be- game in the opening round, there were an es- amount of training from there. cause their strength goals are so different, timated 200 people watching on the sidelines “Running together at night started it he said. – all for a soccer game played on a dirt field all,” Blackwell said. Nevertheless, partners help you stay fo- in the middle of a war in the desert! He said a routine helps each person in cused on your fitness goals outside of the I felt a great sense of pride when I saw a group set their personal schedule, which gym so you don’t lose all of the benefits of a large group of Iraqi workers holding a also helps their bodies stay on a steady rou- your hard work, he said. huge American flag and cheering on the 3rd tine of rest and recovery. The benefits of having a physical part- Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Heavy Brigade Skidis and Blackwell work out in the ner can carry over into an individual’s work Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, in its evenings for about an hour. He said it was environment. game against Turkey. the best time for both because they are off- Blackwell said maintaining his fitness Maybe through the beautiful game we duty and they have no excuse for not exer- has helped him maintain better concentra- made a dent in the right direction in the rela- cising. They began using the gym because tion at work. The body can also better adapt tions of our respective countries. That is why of its availability and the fact that there is a to extreme conditions. the World Cup is a big deal to me. greater variety of cardiovascular exercises “The heat of the desert no longer bothers Sgt. Heather Skidis and Staff Sgt. Rodney Black- available. me and I think it is due to the fact that we well, work out together in the Camp Buehring fit- ness center after work. It is important that a fitness partner has work out daily,” he added. PAGE 16 ANACONDA TIMES JULY 16, 2006 ‘Pacesetters’ conducts diverse missions story and photos by Pfc. Paul J. Harris the Iraqi people he encounters on patrol. On a recent patrol, he heard mortar fire 3rd HBCT, 4th ID PAO coming from a house in the town of Abu Hish- LSA ANACONDA, Iraq - The Soldiers ma, he said. Upon approaching the house, it of 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery, thought was discovered the insurgent round had deto- they were coming to Iraq simply to provide nated in the courtyard, killing an Iraqi girl. fire support for Logistical Support Area Ana- White said he returned to the house the conda. next day to offer his condolences to the fam- The unit, which falls under 3rd Heavy ily and to tell the father of the little girl, “We Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, are here to catch the people who did this to Task Force Band of Brothers, did not realize your little girl.” in addition to providing fire support, its mis- Keveles attributes a lot of the success 3rd sion would change constantly and it would Battalion, 29th Field Artillery, has had to the end up being more like a maneuver battalion senior command for empowering the noncom- than a fires battalion. missioned officers, letting them learn from Command Sgt. Maj. Dean Keveles, 3rd their mistakes and expand their capabilities. Battalion, 29th Field Artillery, said the battal- “Instead of telling them how to do every ion task force is probably the most unique of little step of the mission, we allow them to use any task force that has ever been. their brain cells,” Keveles said. “The thing that allows me to hold my With Soldiers going out on patrols every head up high on this place is the ability of Staff Sgt. Donald White, native of Griffin, Ga., patrol leader, Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artil- day and new armor and technology being my Soldiers to adjust to this type of mission lery, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Task Force Band of Brothers, talks to an added to the Humvee, it creates a lot of wear … that has made us so diversified,” Keveles Iraqi man about activity in his area during a recent patrol. and tear on the vehicle. The amount of main- said. “What is the motto of the field artillery? pick up a dedicated phone to Balad Air Tower tor, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, tenance the vehicles require in a desert condi- ‘The King of Battle.’ We can adapt and over- and tell them which type of gun he is prepar- 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery. tion keeps the maintenance crews of Company come.” ing to fire. Within seconds the tower can give Wyatt said most of the time insurgents can G Forward Support Company very busy. One vital mission of the unit is to deal him clearance. With Balad Air Base, being hear the plane so they know they are being “The Humvee was never designed to do with mortar or rocket fire onto Anaconda. one of the busiest airports in the world, not watched, it keeps them out of areas the unit is what it is doing now; it was a replacement The incoming round immediately causes a every clearance request is granted. patrolling and prevents them from placing an for the jeep,” said 1st Sgt. Richard Koeppel, counterfire mission request. It is up to Sgt. “It gets frustrating because your sole mis- improvised explosive device or mortar tube first sergeant, Company G Forward Support 1st Class Alberto Vasquez, battalion chief fire sion is to protect the Logistical Support Area,” by the side of the road. Company, 64th Brigade Support Battalion, at- control noncommissioned officer, 3rd Bat- Vasquez said. “You are receiving indirect fire The Raven can be flown from inside a tached to 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery. talion, 29th Field Artillery, to make sure the from the enemy and you want to shoot back moving vehicle, giving more aid to patrol “For what it does it is superb.” airspace around the Logistical Support Area but you can’t because of air clearance.” outside the wire. The area tasked out to 3rd Koeppel said they have a lot of new Sol- is clear before sending the fire mission down “Just because a bad guy shoots from Battalion, 29th Field Artillery, to patrol and diers on their first deployment and one of the to the fire teams. behind a school, we do not want to de- secure is equivalent to three times the size of good things about being out here is the con- The hard part is clearing the area for col- stroy that school,” Keveles said. “That is Colorado Springs, Colo. It is the Soldiers in stant experience they are getting. lateral damage, Vasquez said, noting they the difference between us and them, our these patrols who have had to learn new sys- Napoleon said an army marches on its work closely with the Air Force to get aerial morals and our values govern our behavior. tems like the Raven and adjust the most out of stomach and today’s Army is no different. visuals to make sure they do not shoot into a We are not willing to put innocent lives at any other system in the Pacesetter Battalion. It was G Company’s job to get food twice a populated area. stake to reach our ideals and goals as much Staff Sgt. Donald White, patrol leader, B day to places like Forward Operating Base All Vasquez has to do to get clearance is as they are.” Battery, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery, O’Ryan where there is not a dining facility. The Raven is most- has covered most of the terrain and has had The job has since been transferred to another ly used for “terrain de- to wear many different hats doing so. In addi- battalion, but that does not mean the cooks’ nial,” said Sgt. Nathan tion to fighting the enemy, he and his patrols job is finished. They have been tasked out to Wyatt, personnel ad- have also had to help train and work with Sol- Forward Operating Base Warhorse to provide ministrative assistant diers from 4th Battalion, 1st Brigade, 4th Iraqi security for the Provincial Reconstruction and lead raven opera- Army Division and diplomats in dealing with Team.

Pfc. Jonathan Gearhart, native of Virginia Beach, Va., cannoneer crew An Iraqi girl stands next to a water drum where an insurgent mortar hit the previous day, killing a girl around the same age while member, Battery B, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery, 4th ID, walks down she cut tomatoes. the stairs of an Iraqi house during a search while the unit was on patrol.